After elimination, Koeman defends Holland's strategy against Morocco

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman defended the choice of a more defensive formation in the World Cup elimination to Morocco. After the 3-2 penalty shootout defeat, after a 1-1 draw, the coach stated that the strategy was adopted to increase the chances of victory, and not out of fear of the opponent.

Koeman chose the Dutch team with five defenders and said he did not regret the decision, even though he anticipated criticism after the defeat at the World Cup.

"With this defensive approach, we gave up much less than in the group stage games", said the coach, who also revealed that he will evaluate his future in charge of the team after reflecting on the elimination.

"That was positive, but we were also less offensive. You can think what you want about the tactics, but we delivered much less against a team much stronger than Sweden and Tunisia. If I had to do it again, I would do it the same way."

Koeman recalled that the assessment of his choice could have been different if the Netherlands had held on to the advantage until the end.

"If Morocco hadn't equalized with that late goal, there would have been all kinds of praise for me as Netherlands coach. Now I'll probably be criticized for choosing five defenders, but I believe it was necessary."

The coach stated that he spoke with the players before the match and that the group agreed with the change in approach.

"You're going to criticize me, and that's your right, but you watch football from the sidelines. I'm with the team. I knew what needed to be improved. That's how I improved," he said.

Koeman rejected the idea that the stance was motivated by fear of his opponent.

"It wasn't about being afraid. It wasn't that at all. Why be afraid? We had three attackers on the field. It was about a better defensive position, not out of fear, but based on an analysis of the opponent. We can continue discussing this until tomorrow night. You have your opinion, with all due respect, and I have a different view", he added.

With the victory, Morocco advanced to the round of 16 and will face Canada in Houston, on Saturday (4).

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Source: CNN